Wall Colors and Hangings

• Prior to arranging furniture and implementing extra details, decide on wall colors. There are a myriad of options, from regular wall paint to decorative wallpaper and full-size murals to stick-on decals. If you're painting your walls, stick to a neutral tone, such as beige or white. For a bolder look, hang decorative wallpaper on the wall that the bed is against. Remember, however, that bedspreads should not compete with the wall decor. Instead, they should complement one another. Ideas include red and white striped wallpaper, blue star wallpaper or even red or blue trim along a white wall.
  Accent walls with a vintage American flag or a patriotic quilt. Depending on personal preference, photographs of American icons such as legendary actresses or former presidents may be hung on the walls.
  
  

Furniture Choices

• Choose bedding that does not compete with the pattern on the wall. If the wall is striped, it's wise to opt for a solid-colored bedding or bedding with a coordinating pattern, such as large stars. To avoid a busy over-the-top look, choose sheets in a solid color. Depending on the size of the bedroom, a space for seating provides a comfortable lounge area for office work or study. Red upholstered chairs with a white accent table help tie the colors of the room together.
  
  

Decorative Accents

• A neutral rug will help offset the vibrancy of the hues of red and blue implemented in the room. For lighting, red, white and blue string lights are appropriate for children or teenage bedrooms, whereas rustic lanterns transformed into regular table lamps provide a mature look for adult rooms. Framed slogans such as "God Bless America," or "Land Of The Free," show your patriotism. Other possible accents include a mini statue of liberty, eagle decorations, barn stars or patriotic candles.
  
  

Window Treatments

• After Independence Day, many stores offer discounts on patriotic merchandise, such as window decals, miniature flags and wooden signs. Take advantage of these sales to find items to dress up your windows. Start with white vertical blinds. If desired, paint each alternating blind in red to create a red and white striped window treatment. Next, choose a red, white or blue sheer curtain. Keep in mind, however, that a red curtain with red and white striped blinds may come off looking like a theater popcorn bucket.